The new Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe with Start/Stop has been awarded TheGreenCarWebsite.co.uk's Green Car of the Year 2009. The Volvo C30 DRIVe stormed ahead in the online poll beating rivals such as the Toyota Prius and BMW 316d to receive the accolade.

Emitting only 99g/km of CO2, the new Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe with Start/Stop not only qualifies for free annual Vehicle Excise Duty, but also offers up to 74.3 mpg on a combined cycle resulting in around 850 miles on one tank of fuel. These eco credentials make it one of the most fuel efficient vehicles in its class without compromising on style and comfort.

On top of receiving an overwhelming majority of votes from visitors to the site, the Volvo C30 DRIVe was also unanimously voted green car of the year by the motoring journalists behind TheGreenCarWebsite.co.uk.

TheGreenCarWebsite.co.uk's editor, Faye Sunderland said: "The C30 1.6D DRIVe with Start/Stop technology is genuinely a fantastic addition to the ‘green scene' this year. In such a short space of time, Volvo successfully slashed its emissions and as a relative newcomer in the green car market, it is impressive to see the Swedish carmaker make such strong progress in such a short time. A deserved winner, Volvo can afford to be very proud of the C30 DRIVe as its flagship green model."

Peter Rask, managing director for Volvo Car UK added: "We are honoured and delighted that the new Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe with Start/Stop has been named TheGreenCarWebsite.co.uk's Green Car of the Year. Volvo Cars' vision is to develop cars that are entirely free from harmful exhaust emissions and environment-impacting carbon dioxide. Emitting only 99g/km of CO2 the Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe with Start/Stop shows how Volvo are well on their way to achieving this vision."

Descriptions and facts in this press material relate to Volvo Car Group's international car range. Described features might be optional. Vehicle specifications may vary from one country to another and may be altered without prior notification.